Why School Choice Matters to Washington (The Olympian)

As America marks National School Choice Week, Washington should look to my family as an example of why educational options for families are imperative. As a military family living in Pierce County, we are often relocated around the globe. Our family has lived in Louisiana, North Dakota, Kentucky, and Missouri all before moving to Washington in August 2015.

Christina Gagon

In an effort to make the experience easier for our sons, Dylan (12) and Shepard (7), we joined the online school community this past summer. We decided that learning in an online environment would give the boys stronger relationships with teachers and classmates. We enrolled Dylan and Shepard in Washington Virtual Academy (WAVA), a high-quality, tuition-free, online public school.

WAVA’s lessons are personalized for each child and the platform allows me to be involved without being responsible for the content of their education. I have watched my children become better problem solvers and critical thinkers through this program.

This opportunity was only available to my sons because of school choice. Support for school choice exists across the political spectrum and is rooted in the firm belief that parents know their children best. K12 Inc., the company that powers WAVA and other online schools across the nation, works hard to put students first.

Our children are the leaders of tomorrow. Therefore, we must do everything we can to give them the best education possible. A critical element toward achieving this goal is expanding school choice for students like Dylan and Shepard.

For Jessica Fortner, enrolling at AZVA was the best decision for her overall success. After facing constant abuse from bullies at her brick-and-mortar school, she now thrives in a #blendedlearning environment. @SantanSun shares her story: https://t.co/PK13M3hUzi

"Mathematicians aren't born - they're made." These are the words that @GAcyber math teacher Nikki Smith Brown lives by. She works hard to #inspire students and spark their love for #math. Read her 4 tips to creating future mathematicians in @eschoolnews: https://t.co/zWcdyHfXOX

Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, Anthony Perez can get sick easily. Thankfully @ncva_k12 is keeping him safe. With #onlinelearning, Anthony can balance his doctor’s appointments and treatments and not worry about falling behind in class. @WXIIBreaLove @WXII https://t.co/SVDYF39mbY

Congratulations to the CASC #BetaClub for being named a 2018-2019 @nationalbeta School of Merit! CASC received this honor because of the school's dedication and commitment to academic excellence. Way to go! https://t.co/LyhmaZ3MGM #onlinelearning